Help for English Students

Getting started with Frankenstein Part 1

The Preface is key to understanding the context of Frankenstein and Module A has a really strong focus on context. Unfortunately, the ugly edition chosen by the Board of Studies does not deign to include Mary Shelley’s Preface so it might be worthwhile finding another edition. I recommend the one from Vintage and have included a link to its Amazon page below.

When you read the Preface, consider Mary Shelley’s purpose in writing the novel. Remember that context can be historical (the Romantic movement and the French Revolution are both relevant here); social (questions surrounding the rights of men and women were important at this time); cultural (consider the importance of poetry and art as well as religion and the questioning of religion). Context can also be personal or biographical. Read and think about the story of the specific circumstances that inspired the writing of Frankenstein.

Here are some questions to help you get started with your study of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or, if you’re well into Module A, you could use them for revision.

VOLUME ONE

Letter I

What is the effect of the epistolary novel?

Walton writes like a Romantic poet. Find at least three quotes where he describes sublime landscapes.

Letter II

How is the theme of isolation introduced here?

Walton only knows the sea through poetry and books. What is the significance of this for his character?